2011 Subaru Outback Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2011 Subaru Outback: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2011 Subaru Outback tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2011 Subaru Outback tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in my 2011 Subaru Outback?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2011 Subaru Outback, start with a thorough check of the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that the readings align with the recommended levels specified on the driver’s side door jamb or in your owner’s manual. If adjustments are needed, inflate or deflate the tires accordingly. After this, take your vehicle for a short drive at speeds of 25 mph or more; this allows the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to recalibrate and potentially turn off the warning light if the pressures are correct. Next, conduct a visual inspection of each tire for any visible signs of damage, such as punctures or leaks, as these can also trigger the warning light. Keep in mind that temperature fluctuations can impact tire pressure, so if the light activates during colder weather, driving may help warm the tires and restore proper pressure. If the TPMS light continues to blink or remains illuminated after these steps, it may indicate a malfunction within the system itself, necessitating a visit to a dealership or tire shop for further diagnostics. Lastly, if you've recently changed your tires or wheels, ensure that the TPMS sensors are properly registered, as this may require specialized tools. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure warning light issue and determine whether a simple fix or professional assistance is required.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2011 Subaru Outback?

When the tire pressure warning light remains on in your 2011 Subaru Outback, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which is easily rectified by checking and inflating your tires to the recommended levels found on the driver’s side door jamb. If the light persists after adjusting the pressure, inspect for slow leaks or punctures, as these can often go unnoticed but lead to significant issues. Additionally, be mindful of extreme temperature changes, as cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, triggering the warning light. Conversely, overinflated tires can also set off the alert, so ensure your tires are not exceeding the recommended pressure. If you notice the light blinking and then staying on, this may indicate a malfunction in the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), possibly due to a low battery in the sensors or communication issues, which may require professional assistance. Lastly, if you've recently rotated or replaced your tires, the sensors may need to be re-registered with your vehicle's computer. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with your tire pressure warning light.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2011 Subaru Outback?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2011 Subaru Outback is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. When this warning light illuminates, it signals that one or more tires are not at the recommended pressure, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and increase the risk of tire blowouts. Driving on underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to dangerous situations, especially at high speeds. Additionally, the presence of this warning light may indicate a puncture or leak, which can cause further tire damage if left unchecked. If the light blinks and then stays on, it could also point to a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, necessitating a prompt inspection to ensure the system is accurately monitoring tire pressures. Ignoring these warnings can lead to significant safety risks and costly repairs, making it essential to check tire pressures immediately and take appropriate action to resolve any issues.

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